Running a dry cleaning business involves more than just delivering spotless clothes to customers. A major part of keeping your business safe lies in your ability to properly manage and dispose of the hazardous or flammable (combustible) waste generated during the dry cleaning process. While most dry cleaners are familiar with the cumbersome federal, state and local regulations concerning perchloroethylene, there is some confusion as to the correct way to dispose of the waste generated by alternate (non-perc) solvent types. While perchloroethylene waste is classified as hazardous, the waste generated by high flashpoint class IIIA dry cleaning solvents is not considered to be hazardous by The Environmental Protection Agency. Because of this, there are no formal federal guidelines for the disposal of still sludge, spent cartridge filters, or lint. 

Many dry cleaners have transitioned or are planning to transition to alternate solvents due to the pending phaseout of perchloroethylene. These solvents are marketed as  "safer" solvents because they are less volatile and have a lower environmental impact. However, the disposal of alternate solvents must be property managed in order to avoid future contamination issues. While high flashpoint solvents are not classified as hazardous waste at the federal level, some state and local regulations impose restrictions on their disposal. That's because the improper handling and disposal of non-perc waste can still lead to soil or water contamination, particularly if spills or leaks occur. Dry cleaners who use alternative solvents must ensure they store, transport, and dispose of non-perc solvent waste properly to prevent future environmental issues. Best practices for waste disposal include: 

• Storing the waste in sealed containers.
• Storing the waste in sealed, approved containers to prevent leaks.
• Label the containers as flammable (these labels are supplied by the hazardous waste hauler).
• Clean the still daily to maximize the recovery of solvent.
• Allow cartridges to drain back into the machine overnight before their removal and replacement.
• Schedule a timely pick-up of the waste with a licensed hazardous waste hauler.
• Retain all receipts and records from the waste hauler.